What does your gut tell you?

Robert Capron, right, explores the wonders of his belly button, as classmates Zachary Gordon, center, and Karan Brar, left, look on during a scene from “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” 20th Century Fox (20th Century Fox)

We often ask that question when others are baffled about decisions. And there may be more wisdom and influence living in that gut than we realize.

As a college sophomore, Elaine Hsiao learned in microbiology class one’s gut holds almost twice our brain weight in bacteria. For what purpose? As a graduate student Hsiao learned that these bacteria might actually influence our thoughts, moods and behavior.

Now a research fellow, Hsiao explores how those microbes can affect brain function. Perhaps she is on a path of healing; perhaps one day we treat mental health by simply introducing more microbes into one’s system.

My gut tells me such a discovery would bring peace and wholeness to millions.

(S-R archive photo: a scene from “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” 20th Century Fox)